“Mummy, I really like this car. This car is fun!” These words, uttered by my five-year-old son, perfectly encapsulate the essence of the 2017 Ford Focus RS. It’s a car that, above all else, prioritizes driving enjoyment. While I could simply end the review there and agree with his profound assessment, perhaps a little more elaboration is warranted to truly understand why this hot hatch remains so captivating years after its release.
The 2017 Ford Focus RS isn’t just fun; it’s an explosion of exhilaration wrapped in a practical hatchback shell. It’s a car that injects a dose of playful rebellion into everyday driving, making even mundane errands feel like a special event. Our week with this Nitrous Blue marvel was an absolute blast, regardless of the weather or the type of road we encountered. This inherent fun factor, permeating every aspect of the Focus RS, is what truly sets it apart, whether you’re navigating the daily grind or attacking apexes on a track day.
Ford truly hit a home run with the design of the Focus RS. Building upon the already sporty foundation of the Focus ST, they amplified the aggression and visual drama. The “Nitrous Blue” paint of our test car was undeniably striking, a vibrant hue that perfectly complements the car’s energetic character. Beneath this eye-catching exterior, the Focus RS offers a surprisingly spacious interior, highlighted by the incredibly supportive and comfortable RECARO race seats.
From the outside, the Focus RS makes a bold statement. A larger, more assertive front grille with an integrated diffuser, proudly displaying the bright blue RS badge, immediately signals its performance intentions. This is further emphasized by the substantial, double-decker rear roof spoiler and the 19-inch blacked-out alloy wheels, revealing vibrant blue Brembo brake calipers. The prominent dual exhaust outlets nestled within a rear diffuser leave no doubt that this Ford is serious about performance. It’s a design that screams driving pleasure and raw capability.
While I appreciate the driving experience in most cars, the 2017 Ford Focus RS unlocked a new dimension of driving joy. It’s not just about raw power or striking aesthetics; it’s about the holistic experience, the engaging connection between driver and machine. The Focus RS elevates the simple act of driving into something genuinely thrilling.
This pocket rocket is armed with a potent 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine churning out 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a blistering 0-60 mph sprint in around 4.5 seconds. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an advanced All-Wheel Drive system, and, most notably, it features a “Drift Mode.” Yes, drift mode. Ford engineers developed an intelligent AWD system capable of dynamically distributing power not only between the front and rear axles but also laterally across the rear wheels. Coupled with a slick and precise 6-speed manual transmission, the Focus RS transforms into a track-ready weapon that’s equally comfortable navigating everyday streets.
Speaking of everyday streets, the 2017 Ford Focus RS makes its presence known, albeit in the most satisfying way possible. The exhaust note is addictive, a symphony of pops, bangs, and burbles that emanate from the dual exhaust pipes. Even gentle acceleration elicits a pleasing rumble, but pushing the revs higher unleashes a rally car-esque soundtrack that is utterly intoxicating. My son’s constant requests from the back seat to provoke more backfires were not a chore, but a delightful excuse to indulge in the car’s auditory delights.
The Focus RS truly comes alive when driven with enthusiasm. It thrives on being pushed, rewarding spirited driving with exceptional responsiveness and engagement. Roundabouts become impromptu playgrounds, and twisty country roads transform into exhilarating stretches of tarmac. However, this performance focus does come with trade-offs in certain drive modes.
Engage “Track” mode, and the 2017 Ford Focus RS becomes noticeably more rigid. While this is beneficial for ultimate track performance, the dampers become incredibly firm, resulting in a ride that borders on comical for everyday use. In Track mode, even minor road imperfections are amplified, and occupants might experience a rather bouncy ride. While my son found the extreme stiffness hilarious, demanding Track mode frequently, it might be less appreciated by those seeking daily driving comfort.
“Drift Mode,” while entertaining, doesn’t magically transform you into a professional drifter. Instead, it subtly loosens the rear end and tightens the front, making it easier to initiate and maintain slides in corners. With smooth steering inputs and consistent throttle application, Drift Mode allows for playful cornering and a taste of controlled sideways action, particularly enjoyable in open spaces or, dare I say, roundabouts. The advanced AWD system actively manages the car’s trajectory during drifts, providing a safety net and making controlled slides more accessible.
Is “Drift Mode” essential? Perhaps not. Drifting an AWD car, in general, is achievable with practice, and a dedicated mode isn’t strictly necessary. However, it’s an undeniably cool and attention-grabbing feature that adds to the Focus RS’s overall playful character. It’s a talking point and a fun gimmick in an already exceptionally cool car.
Of course, the 2017 Ford Focus RS isn’t without its imperfections. One notable drawback is its surprisingly large turning radius, arguably one of the widest I’ve encountered in any car. Parking maneuvers can become multi-point affairs, and executing a U-turn on a standard two-lane road often requires careful planning and multiple attempts.
Another consideration is the price. Starting at around $48,000, the Focus RS occupies a competitive price bracket, facing rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R, Subaru STI, and MINI John Cooper Works. While the MINI JCW might be less powerful, it offers a unique character and charm that are compelling in their own right. The Golf R and STI are also formidable contenders in the hot hatch segment, each with their own strengths.
Ultimately, my son’s simple yet insightful statement rings true: the 2017 Ford Focus RS is, above all else, a profoundly fun car. Owning one guarantees a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. However, its spirited nature also carries the risk of attracting unwanted attention from law enforcement. Therefore, regular track days are highly recommended to fully unleash this little beast in a safe and controlled environment. The 2017 Ford Focus RS is just as happy carving up corners on a track as it is tackling the daily commute, solidifying its position as a truly versatile and exhilarating hot hatch.
2017 Ford Focus RS Specs (as tested):
- Price (before taxes): $51,263.00
- Configuration: Front engine, AWD
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Power: 350 horsepower
- Torque: 350 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy (Combined): 10.9L/100km (rated), 11.2L/100km (observed)
Key Competitors:
- Volkswagen Golf R
- Subaru WRX STI
- MINI John Cooper Works
- BMW M135i/M140i (in some markets)
Learn More: Ford Canada
